3 Days in the Adirondacks

It is our first in the Adirondacks of NY. Since moving to Montreal just over a year ago, we have been slowly getting to know the outdoors hotspots within easy driving distance. The High Peaks region near Lake Placid is just over two hours away and offers a pile of backcountry options year-round.

This is our first backpacking trip without children. They are growing up fast, and will not always be with us as they forge their own lives as young adults. Renee and I are starting to plan some some trips together without them. They are now old enough to be at home alone, and Renee and I need to forge our friendship together for the years ahead when they won't be under our care.

This is our first backpacking trip together since completing our AT thru-hike in 2014. The AT was a biggie and Renee needed a little break from backpacking. She is now officially ready to be back on the trail, and we are very excited about doing future trips together.

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The last section of the trail from our camp site at Lake Arnold was an easy walk down to Marcy Dam, then a short flat hike to the trail head. Before we kew it the trip was over, and on all accounts a fantastic success.

A view from our camp spot at Lake Arnold. A below freezing night made for a beautiful frosty morning. I attempted to get a shot of the fog wisping off the lake, but these things always look so much better in person.

After one tough climb, 1.6 miles with over 2000ft of elevation gain, and what felt like vertical wet rock most of the way, we finally made it to the top of Mount Colden (with a view overlooking Lake Colden below). This was also the first place on our trek that we were able to get a cell signal and check-in on the kids. Thankfully all was well, and the worried mother @reneetougas was reassured that our kids first time at home alone was going without a hitch.